But, here is the catch, part of understanding
success, part of what can allow students to move ahead, to break
glass ceilings placed above them, is to understand that the cultivation of
positive relationships paves the path to progress.

So here is the opportunity for you to distinguish
yourself – to distinguish yourself in the realm of networking, relationship
building, and honestly, determining how memorable you are in the eyes of those around
you.

Say thank you.

Always.

Say thank you to the people who do something for
you, to those who inspire you, to those who offer the simplest or most complex
favors.

Because the reality is that even those who are
fantastic, terrific, and dynamic in our lives don’t hear the words “thank you”
nearly as much as you might imagine.

I issued a challenge yesterday about waking up
early in the morning to bring energy to your life.

And today I am issuing a second challenge – the
challenge to say thank you – vocally, digitally, or even through a hand-written
note – to someone in your life.

Say thank you to your friends. They need to hear
it.

Say thank you to your professors – not mid-course,
not even before the final exam, but after the final class, after the grade is posted. Let it come from a genuine place – send an email, let them know
that you appreciated the knowledge they offered you.

And watch the effect this has when you are asking for
a recommendation letter when you transfer or graduate.

Most importantly, more than anything, say thank you
to your professional mentors – anytime you hear someone speak at a class,
conference, or event, go up to them and say thank you – get their business card,
email them detailing how you took the advice that he or she
offered.

Because there is a reality – gratitude is powerful.

Your gratitude can make you magnetic to others.

Say thank you without expecting anything in return
– it can be surprising how gratefulness and genuineness can change how you
view certain situations around you.

And you might be surprised how that little display of gratitude can change the way that others view you.